Picture: One Piece, Jujutsu Kaisen and Four Knights of the Apocalypse
One of probably the most beloved artwork types on the planet, anime has taken the world by storm over the previous decade. Netflix continues to speculate closely in anime, however what is going to it appear like on Netflix over the following few years? Let’s discover out.
Here’s what we anticipate from anime on Netflix over the following few years.
What does the tip of FUNimation imply for Netflix?
In phrases of anime, FUNimation was certainly one of Netflix’s high opponents. It can be ridiculous to argue in any other case, however as a devoted service to anime, FUNimation’s anime library was at all times considerably larger than Netflix’s.
However, in April 2024, FUNimation was shut down, which noticed a big portion of its library transfer to Crunchyroll and FUNimation customers migrate to the opposite streaming service.
UKRAINE – 2022/02/17: In this picture illustration, a Funimation Global Group brand is displayed on a smartphone display and within the background. (Photo Illustration by Pavlo Gonchar/SOPA Images/LightRocket by way of Getty Images)
So, whereas Crunchyroll has cannibalized FUNimation, this presents a possibility for Netflix to pursue new licensing offers. We’ve already seen a few of this in motion due to new additions similar to Overlord, Black Clover, Haikyu, and Konosuba. Jujutsu Kaisen and Dr. Stone are additionally on the best way. Not to say, Netflix has periodically added outdated seasons of One Piece to the library since 2020.
Given that Aniplex and Sony Pictures Television collectively personal Crunchyroll LLC, this works closely in Netflix’s favor. Aniplex and Sony Pictures Television are not any strangers to licensing content material to Netflix or working instantly with them on originals.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – APRIL 09: Mitchel Berger, SVP, Global Commerce, Crunchyroll, speaks onstage throughout “The State of the Industry and a Special Presentation from Crunchyroll” throughout CinemaCon, the official conference of the National Association of Theatre Owners, at Caesars Palace on April 09, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jerod Harris/Getty Images for CinemaCon)
While the streaming service might not obtain the latest and hottest anime titles, we anticipate to see Netflix proceed licensing extra content material already on Crunchyroll.
Netflix may have each episode of One Piece
Between including new episodes periodically, producing a profitable live-action adaptation, releasing new weekly episodes, and reanimating the East Blue Saga, it’s protected to say that Netflix is quick turning into One Piece’s streaming dwelling.
However, virtually 600 One Piece anime episodes are nonetheless lacking from the Netflix library. Given the sheer quantity of episodes left to be added, it might take a very long time, however over the following few years, we anticipate that ultimately, each episode of One Piece might be out there to stream on Netflix.
Picture: One Piece – TOEI Animation
Netflix Simulcasting More
From producing to licensing completely, Netflix has invested a variety of money and time into its library of unique anime content material.
One of probably the most constructive adjustments Netflix has already made is eradicating the dreaded “Netflix Jail.” This was when Netflix would completely license an anime that aired in Japan weekly however wouldn’t be launched to the remainder of the world till months after the published led to Japan. Netflix has since begun its transfer to simulcasting, which began with the likes of Blue Period earlier than ultimately shifting on to titles similar to Vinland Saga, Four Knights of the Apocalypse, and One Piece.
Picture: One Piece Eghead Island Arc – TOEI Animation
The sooner subscribers can stream their desired content material, the happier they are going to be. This is why Netflix’s sluggish however certain transition in the direction of simulcasting is probably the most pure method the streaming service can progress its anime content material.
What path ought to Netflix take its plans for anime? Let us know within the feedback beneath!